2014 Hyundai Elantra Revealed With Larger, More Powerful Engine

Hyundai has officially unveiled the 2014 Elantra lineup at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show adding power and improving the car’s driving feel.

All three Elantra models – coupe, sedan and GT – were all unveiled today in LA, boasting more “fun-to-drive elements,” as Hyundai would like to put it. Spearheading the list of changes to the 2014 Elantra is the new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine which replaces the 1.8-liter powerplant found in its predecessor. The new powerplant adds 25 more hp and 23 lb-ft of torque compared to the unit it’s replacing, giving it a new total of 173 hp and 154 lb-ft of torque. To make it more fun to drive, the 2014 Elantra receives sport-tuned steering and suspension calibrations, helping sharpen turn-in and handling on twisty roads.

SEE ALSO: 2013 LA Auto Show Coverage

As for the coupe model, new standard features include a rear spoiler, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, 17-inch wheels and a unique blackout grille with chrome surrounds. And to make it even simpler on its buyers, the 2014 Elantra coupe will only be offered in one trim level. The only options buyers have when purchasing an Elantra coupe is its color and the Technology Package. Speaking of the Technology Package, the 2014 model adds Blue Link and Hyundai Assurance Connected Care, project headlights with LED accents, LED tail lights and next-generation navigation and audio technology with Pandora internet radio.

Changes to the five-door GT model are similar to the coupe, except LED tail lights will be available as a premium feature while a driver’s blind spot mirror is now standard. Highlights on the GT model include a driver knee airbag (an Elantra first) and a hidden rear camera. Hyundai was quick to boast that the Elantra GT has more passenger and cargo volume than the Ford Focus, Mazda3 and Volkswagen Golf while it’s more aerodynamic than the Subaru Impreza or VW Golf.

Lastly, the sedan model also sees numerous changes including the addition of the Elantra Sport to the model lineup and the GLS is now known as the SE. Standard on the Elantra Sport and Limited models are LED tail lights, project headlights with LED accents and chrome belt line molding. Standard on the Elantra Sport model is an exposed single exhaust tip, while the SE gets standard 17-inch wheels.